Identification of cardiovascular health gene variants related to longevity in a Chinese population

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Cardiovascular Health
• Longevity Research

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality globally.
• Genes influencing cardiovascular health and healthy longevity remain underexplored.
• Identifying genetic factors for healthy aging is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate genetic variants associated with healthy longevity and cardiovascular health in a Chinese cohort.
• To explore the role of identified genetic variants in lipid metabolism and their interaction with longevity.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms linking genetic factors to cardiovascular health and longevity.

Main Methods:

• Cohort study involving 13,275 healthy elderly individuals (5,107 long-lived, 8,168 controls).
• Utilized whole-exome sequencing (WES) and genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
• Performed stratified analysis of CVD risk factors, biological function analysis, and KEGG pathway analysis; included meta-analysis of venous thrombosis patients.

Main Results:

• Identified two genetic variants, TFPI rs7586970 (T allele) and ADAMTS7 rs3825807 (A allele), associated with healthy lipid metabolism and longevity.
• Demonstrated an interaction between TFPI rs7586970, ADAMTS7 rs3825807, and APOE ɛ3 in maintaining normal blood lipid levels in centenarians.
• Found TFPI rs7586970 T allele associated with both longevity and protection against vascular disease, including venous thrombosis.

Conclusions:

• TFPI rs7586970 and ADAMTS7 rs3825807 are novel genetic factors contributing to healthy longevity and cardiovascular health.
• These variants influence lipid metabolism pathways, potentially mediating their effects on longevity and vascular protection.
• The findings provide insights into the genetic basis of healthy aging and cardiovascular disease prevention.